There's a longstanding question in sports that scientists have tried to answer: Which playing surface is safer for athletes: natural grass or artificial turf
Which playing surface is safer for athletes: natural grass or artificial turf? The question is important not just in football, but also for soccer, recreational sports and high school and college athletics — anywhere athletes make sudden shifts in direction that can twist joints and tear ligaments. Scientists continue to study the question, but there are challenges to getting the answer right.
Some studies look back at injury rates, while making adjustments for other factors that could be in play. That type of study is good, but will never be able to keep up with innovation, said Dr. Calvin Hwang, a team doctor for Stanford's football players and the San Jose Earthquakes soccer team. “There’s always evolving technology, both with grass, but especially with artificial turf,” Hwang said. “The newer generation turfs may be safer than older generation turfs.
For big stadiums, aside from player safety, there are financial pressures that favor artificial turf, which offers more flexibility for events like concerts. Weather and upkeep are part of the equation. A poorly maintained grass field can cause injuries. The future may be hybrid fields. The Green Bay Packers' Lambeau Field in Wisconsin has featured Kentucky bluegrass sod weaved in with synthetic fibers since 2018. Grass or hybrid fields may get a boost from the 2026 World Cup.
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